Top 15 National Parks in India for Wildlife Safari 2026

Are you a nature lover? Are you a wildlife enthusiast? Then, you should certainly visit the best wildlife national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India. Thus, you can experience a best-in-class wildlife safari and experience nature closely.

Nature teaches us many things. However, one can learn it in the best way by experiencing things as they are. Witnessing animals and birds in their natural habitat offers a unique experience.

Are you a wildlife photographer? Then, you will get scopes to capture some unforgettable moments during your journey. Moreover, you could get to explore some endangered species as well. So, discovering wildlife in national parks will give you many insights into life.

So, are you excited to know about the top 15 wildlife national parks in India? Then, let’s start the discussion.

Table of Contents

List of Top 15 Famous Wildlife National Parks in India:

1. Kanha National Park

The Kanha Kisli National Park is one of the best wildlife national parks in our country. It is among the key homes of the world-renowned Royal Bengal Tiger. Moreover, the Kanha National Park is also famous for housing Barasingha or swamp deer.

Exploration of Kanha Reserve will give you insights into the rich habitat of wild animals. You can opt for a jeep safari or elephant safari to discover all the species available here. As a result, you could have closer insights into wildlife. Besides, it will also give you opportunities to take some memorable images with your camera.

In short, the Kanha National Park acts as a haven for wild creatures. They can lead a peaceful life in their natural habitat. The ‘Jewel Of Kanha’ is the swamp deer. Witnessing these deer will create some memorable experiences for you. Besides, the tiger tour is also a grand option for nature enthusiasts.

Best season to visit: October to June
How to get there: The nearest airport is Jabalpur, about 175 kilometers away. The park is well-connected by road from Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Raipur.
Price: Safari permit cost varies by zone, nationality, vehicle type and booking category. Check the official MP Forest booking portal before confirming your safari.
Famous For: Known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and barasingha deer. It inspired Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.”

More Information

Kanha National Park is generally open for safaris from 15 October to 30 June, while core zones remain closed during the monsoon season from July to September.

Safari timings change by season and are usually operated in two shifts: morning safari from sunrise and afternoon safari before sunset. The afternoon jeep safari remains closed every Wednesday, and both shifts remain closed on Holi.

For the latest safari permit fee, timings and availability, bookings should be checked through the official MP Forest online portal.

Read more attractions in Madhya Pradesh:

2. Gir Forest National Park

The Gir Forest National Park is located in Junagarh, Gujarat. Did you know only this place house Asiatic Lions around the globe? The whole forest area of this national park is deciduous as well as dry. Such an environment offers a perfect habitat for Asiatic Lions.

The new statistics of 2015 declare the whole Saurashtra Region houses 523 Lions. Also, the locality is home to over 300 Leopards. Moreover, the Gir Forest National Park houses two varied species of deer. The place also has Chowsingha, which is the only four-horned antelope in the world. Many smaller carnivores are also present in this national park. Some of them include the striped Hyena, Indian Fox, and Jackal.

Best season to visit: December to March
How to get there: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, approximately 110 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Junagadh and Veraval.
Price: Gir Jungle Safari permit is currently ₹800 for Indians and ₹7,600 for foreigners on weekdays, and ₹1,000 for Indians and ₹9,500 for foreigners on weekends or festival days, for up to 6 persons. Guide and safari vehicle charges are extra.
Famous For: Home to the Asiatic lion, Gir Forest is the only place outside Africa where these lions are found.

More Information

Gir Jungle Safari runs in three slots: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in winter. In summer, timings are 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The safari remains closed every year from 16 June to 15 October. Booking should be done only through the official Gir Online Permit Booking System.

Read more attractions in Gujarat:

3. Jim Corbett National Park

Which is the oldest national park in our country? The answer is Jim Corbett National Park. It was found to safeguard the jeopardized Bengal tiger. Moreover, the Jim Corbett National Park is popular for discovering Agile Indian Leopard. Exploring Bengal Tiger in this national park is a unique experience in itself.

The Jim Corbett National Park started its journey in 1936 as Hailey National Park. Not only the oldest but it is also the most reputed National Park in the country.

The area of this renowned tourist spot spans more than 520 square kilometers. The whole region houses hills, grasslands, swampy depressions, a vast lake, etc.

It is one of the few tiger reserves in the country, which permits overnight stays. It offers some wonderful lifelong experiences to be cherished. Moreover, wildlife exploration and nature watching are also available here. You can opt for an elephant ride or an open four-wheeler Jeep for the same.

The Jim Corbett National Park is simply a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It houses tigers as well as endangered species, including Otters, etc.

Best season to visit: November to June
How to get there: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 50 kilometers away. Ramnagar is the nearest railway station, connected to major cities in India.
Price: Jim Corbett safari cost varies by zone, nationality, permit type, guide, vehicle and booking category. Check the official Corbett booking portal for the latest permit fee before confirming.
Famous For: India’s oldest national park, known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.

More Information

Jim Corbett safaris usually run in two shifts: morning and afternoon. Exact timings change by season, zone and sunrise or sunset schedule.

A registered guide is compulsory for safari. Dhikala day visit is allowed only through conducted tours organized by Corbett Tiger Reserve.

Safari bookings should be made through the official Corbett portal, as fees, availability and opening dates may change seasonally.

Read more attractions in Jim Corbett:

4. Hemis National Park

The Hemis National Park is situated in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh locality. It houses numerous rare mammal species, such as Snow Leopards. Multiple trekking routes are there to arrive in the Hemis National Park. These routes open from mid-June to mid-October. However, the ideal season to discover snow leopards is certainly the late winter season.

This National Park also houses Shapu, the Great Tibetan Sheep, and so on. Besides, the Eurasian brown bear, Asiatic Ibex, red fox, etc are also present here as endangered species.

Best season to visit: May to September
How to get there: The nearest airport is Leh Airport, approximately 45 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Leh.
Price: Hemis National Park entry fee may vary by visitor category and local rules. Please confirm the latest fee with the Ladakh tourism office or local forest authorities before visiting.
Famous For: Home to the snow leopard, Hemis National Park is known for its high-altitude wildlife.

More Information

Hemis National Park is usually open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The park is best known for snow leopard habitat, high-altitude wildlife, trekking routes and the nearby Hemis Monastery.

The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, and local taxis are available from Leh for Hemis and nearby areas.

Read more attractions in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh:

5. Namdapha National Park

Which one is the largest national park in our country in terms of area? The answer is Namdapha National Park. It is also the biggest protected area in entire Northeast India based on area. It is situated in Arunachal Pradesh.

Only the Namdapha National Park houses four big cat species in the entire country. They include Red Giant Flying Squirrel, Bengal Tigers, Indian common leopards, and snow leopards.

Best season to visit: October to April
How to get there: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport, approximately 160 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Miao.
Price: Namdapha National Park entry fee and local permit charges may change by visitor category. Confirm the latest fee with the park office or local authorities at Miao before visiting.
Famous For: Known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Hoolock gibbon and clouded leopard.

More Information

Namdapha National Park is best visited from October to April, when weather and forest access are more suitable.

The park is accessed through Miao in Changlang district and is known for rainforest trails, birdwatching, rare wildlife and high biodiversity.

Indian visitors need an Arunachal Pradesh Inner Line Permit. Foreign nationals require PAP/RAP permission before visiting Arunachal Pradesh.

Read more attractions in North East India:

6. Nagarhole National Park

In short, the Nagarhole National Park is among the “Project Tiger” tiger reserves in the country. The Nagarhole National Park is a segment of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

It is situated in Mysore, Karnataka. Visit this place and you could get to explore various wild animals to their natural habitats. Some of these animals include four-horned antelopes, elephants, etc.

Best season to visit: October to May
How to get there: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, approximately 96 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Mysore and Bangalore.
Price: Nagarhole safari fees depend on the safari gate and vehicle type. Current official tariff shows Bus Safari at ₹600 per person above 12 years and Jeep Safari at ₹1,000 per seat above 5 years.
Famous For: Rich in wildlife, Nagarhole National Park is known for its tiger and elephant populations.

More Information

Kakanakote Safari, Kabini side, runs from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Nanachi Safari, Coorg/Kutta side, normally runs from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, but it is currently temporarily closed until further notice.

Advance registration is mandatory, bookings open 15 days before the safari date and close 48 hours before the visit.

7. Bandipur National Park

The Bandipur National Park (Karnataka) is a segment of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This place is among the wild parks in the country to support numerous endangered wild animals. It includes four-horned antelopes, Indian wild dogs, and so on.

Best season to visit: October to March
How to get there: The nearest airport is Mysore Airport, approximately 80 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Mysore and Bangalore.
Price: Bandipur safari charges depend on vehicle type, visitor category and booking rules. The official safari portal should be checked before booking, as revised rates may apply from 1 September 2026.
Famous For: Known for its tiger and elephant populations, Bandipur National Park is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

More Information

Bandipur Jungle Safari usually operates in morning and afternoon slots. Current/standard safari timings are generally around 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, but timings may change seasonally.

The Karnataka Forest Department restored full jungle safari operations at Bandipur and Nagarahole in 2026 after earlier restrictions.

Safari bookings should be made through the official Bandipur Tiger Reserve / Bandipur Tiger Conservation Foundation portal.

Read more attractions in Karnataka:

8. Mudumalai National Park

In a nutshell, Mudumalai National Park is a major wildlife habitat, nestled in the tri-junction. It is the place, where three states meet and they are Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

The Mudumalai National Park houses various vulnerable and endangered species of birds and animals. Some critically endangered bird species present here are the long-billed vultures and Indian White-rumped vultures.

Best season to visit: April to June and September to October
How to get there: The nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport, approximately 160 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Ooty and Mysore.
Price: Mudumalai Tiger Reserve safari charges vary by vehicle type, visitor category and booking option. Please check the official Mudumalai booking website before confirming your safari.
Famous For: Home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants.

More Information

Mudumalai safari timings are generally from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM in the afternoon.

The reserve offers options such as Mazda Mini Bus Jungle Safari, Camper Safari, Gypsy Safari and Elephant Camp visits, subject to availability.

Bookings should be made only through the official Mudumalai Tiger Reserve website, as the reserve warns visitors to avoid fake private safari bookings.

Read more attractions in Tamil Nadu:

9. Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park houses the highest density of tigers living in protected areas in India and also in the world. It is also home to many wild water buffaloes, Indian elephants, wild cats, and swamp deer.

Kaziranga National Park is located in Assam. This place houses Indian one-horned rhinoceroses in the largest population in the globe.

Best season to visit: November to April
How to get there: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, approximately 97 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Jorhat and Guwahati.
Price: Kaziranga safari fees vary by range, nationality, jeep booking, guide fee and seasonal rules. Please check the official Kaziranga booking counter or Assam Forest updates before confirming.
Famous For: Famous for its population of Indian rhinoceroses, Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More Information

Kaziranga jeep safari usually runs in morning and afternoon slots, but timings vary by range and season.

The park generally opens for tourism from October to May, while safaris remain closed during the monsoon period.

For 2026, jeep safari was suspended from 25 May as the monsoon approached, so travellers should confirm opening dates before planning.

Read more details on Kaziranga:

10. Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is popular for its great tiger population. It is also among the Project Tiger reserves in our country. Located in Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is a perfect spot for wildlife photographers. Nature lovers should also visit this place.

Best season to visit: November to April
How to get there: The nearest airport is Jaipur Airport, approximately 160 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Sawai Madhopur.
Price: Ranthambore safari fees vary by nationality, safari zone, vehicle type, guide fee and booking category. Check the official Rajasthan Forest booking portal before confirming your permit.
Famous For: Known for its tiger population, Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in India to spot tigers in the wild.

More Information

Ranthambore National Park is usually open for tourism from October to June.

Safari timings change by season and normally operate in two shifts: morning and afternoon.

Common timing example for October is 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM, but exact timing should be checked for your travel date.

Advance online booking is strongly recommended through the official Rajasthan Forest / FMDSS safari booking portal.

Read more attractions in Rajasthan:

11. Tadoba National Park

The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Project is one of the popular sanctuaries in Maharashtra. It houses the world-renowned Royal Bengal Tigers. It is also the oldest and biggest National Park in Maharashtra.

The tiger reserve sprawls across 1,727 Sq.km. The Tadoba National Park started its journey in 1955. The Tadoba Tiger Reserve is popular for its flora and fauna.

However, some of the renowned flora ranges of the Tadoba National Park include Dhauda, Teak, Semal, Hald, Beheda, Arjun, etc. Popular species of animals found here include Marsh crocodiles, Spotted Deer, Jungle Cats, etc.

Best season to visit: March to May
How to get there: The nearest airport is Nagpur Airport, approximately 140 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Chandrapur.
Price: Tadoba safari charges vary by gate, core or buffer zone, booking type, guide, vehicle and visitor category. Check the official MyTadoba portal before booking.
Famous For: Known for its tiger population, Tadoba National Park offers excellent opportunities for tiger sightings.

More Information

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve safaris usually run in morning and afternoon shifts, with timings varying by season and gate.

The core zone remains closed during the monsoon period, generally from 30 June to 30 September, while buffer-zone access may depend on official updates.

Safari permits should be booked only through the official MyTadoba Maharashtra Forest portal.

Read more attractions in Maharashtra:

12. Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans National Park is a popular Tiger Reserve. Moreover, it is a Biosphere Reserve with a vast region of mangrove forests. This place is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Did you know Sundarbans mangrove forests come as a large Bengal tiger reserve? Moreover, this place houses the saltwater crocodile and the apex predator. Plan a trip to West Bengal to visit the Sundarbans National Park.

Best season to visit: September to March
How to get there: The nearest airport is Kolkata Airport, approximately 112 kilometers away. The park is accessible by boat from various points in the Sundarbans.
Price: Sundarbans National Park entry and boat charges vary by route, permit point, boat type and visitor category. Please confirm the latest fee with Sundarban Tiger Reserve or your registered boat operator before travel.
Famous For: Home to the Bengal tiger, Sundarbans National Park is the largest mangrove forest in the world.

More Information

Sundarbans can be explored only by registered boats with valid forest permits. Entry permission is issued from offices or permit points such as Canning, Sonakhali, Bagna and Sajnekhali.

Boat safaris usually operate during daytime only, commonly from morning to late afternoon. No boat movement is allowed inside forest areas after the permitted evening limit.

The best time to visit Sundarbans is from October to March, when weather is more comfortable for boat rides and wildlife viewing.

Read more attractions in West Bengal:

13. Bandhavgarh National Park

Bandhavgarh National Park is a renowned national park in Madhya Pradesh. It is among the places to house the largest tiger population density in the country. Bandhavgarh Bengal tigers are renowned around the globe.

The Bandhavgarh National Park is home to a large number of Tigers. However, a noteworthy number of Deer and Leopards are also found here. One of the most popular attractions of this place is the White Tigers.

Best season to visit: October to June
How to get there: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, approximately 164 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Jabalpur and Umaria.
Price: Bandhavgarh safari fees vary by core or buffer zone, vehicle type, nationality, booking category, guide fee and vehicle charges. Please check the official MP Forest booking portal before confirming.
Famous For: Known for its high density of tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

More Information

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve usually opens for tourism from October to June, while core zones remain closed during the monsoon season.

Safari timings change by season and normally operate in two shifts: morning and afternoon.

A common winter timing is around 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, but exact timings should be checked for your travel date.

Advance safari booking should be made through the official MP Forest online booking portal.

14. Simlipal National Park

Are you planning a trip to Odisha? Then, you should not miss visiting the Simlipal National Park. It houses Royal Bengal Tigers, wild elephants, Chausingha, and Indian Bison.

The Simlipal National Park is rich with incredible scenic views. Experiencing wildlife creatures here makes some unforgettable experiences. This place offers a whole ecosystem regarding human, floral, and faunal habitats. You will explore beautiful rivers, plateaus, lush forests, meadows, and waterfalls here.

The Mugger Crocodile Scheme was started here in 1979. It houses the highest population of tigers. Moreover, barking deer, hill mynah, Sambar, and elephants, are also there.

The Simlipal National Park is also home to over 300 bird species. Besides, popular trees like Simulare and Sal are also present here. In short, Simlipal National Park is a blissful experience to explore.

Best season to visit: November to June
How to get there: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport, approximately 270 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Baripada.
Price: Simlipal Tiger Reserve entry fee is currently listed as ₹50 per person. Vehicle, guide, camera, accommodation and other eco-tourism charges may be extra.
Famous For: Home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.

More Information

Simlipal is currently under annual monsoon closure, and online booking is temporarily closed.

The park opening and closing dates are notified by the Field Director, Simlipal Tiger Reserve, based on weather and local conditions.

Tourist places inside the reserve also remain closed during the monsoon season. Always check the official Simlipal website before planning your visit.

Read more attractions in Odisha:

15. Velavadar National Park

Velavadar National Park is currently called Blackbuck National Park. If you are on your Gujarat tour, then pay a visit to this place. Some popular species of the Velavadar National Park are Jungle Cats, Wolves, and Hyenas.

The Velavadar Blackbuck National Park houses the highest surviving blackbuck population. Moreover, nilgai, fox, jungle cat, the wolf also reside there. You can also explore white and painted storks, pelicans, etc in this national park.

Best season to visit: October to March
How to get there: The nearest airport is Bhavnagar Airport, approximately 42 kilometers away. The park is accessible by road from Bhavnagar.
Price: Velavadar National Park entry fee is ₹40 per person for Indians and 10 USD per person for foreigners. Gypsy hire charges are extra and paid separately.
Famous For: Known for its population of blackbucks, Velavadar National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

More Information

Velavadar National Park is open from 16 October to 15 June and remains closed every year from 16 June to 15 October.

Winter timings are 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Summer timings are 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

An extra 25% charge applies on weekends. Booking should be checked through the official Gujarat permit booking website.

Wrapping Up

I hope you are now excited to explore the wildlife national parks in India. You will get to experience nature in the truest form. Moreover, you will discover various species in their natural habitat.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today!

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